About The Love Bug

The Love Bug, released in 1969, is an American comedy film directed by Robert Stevenson. The film revolves around Herbie, a Volkswagen Beetle with a distinctive personality and incredible racing ability. An unsuccessful race car driver, Jim Douglas, and his quirky friend, Tennessee Steinmetz, discover Herbie's unique qualities and subsequently have adventurous and humorous experiences.

Making / Production

The movie was based on the 1961 book "Car, Boy, Girl" by Gordon Buford. It was the first in a series of films made by Walt Disney Productions that starred an anthropomorphic pearl-white, fabric-sunroofed 1963 Volkswagen racing Beetle named Herbie. The film was directed by Robert Stevenson and produced by Bill Walsh.

Actors

• Dean Jones as Jim Douglas: An unsuccessful racing driver who later becomes successful due to Herbie. Jones portrayed his character with charm and humor.
• Michele Lee as Carole Bennett: A sophisticated, level-headed woman who runs an auto showroom. Lee's performance brings elegance and grace to the film.
• David Tomlinson as Peter Thorndyke: The pompous and deceitful car dealer. Tomlinson's acting creates a memorable villain character.
• Buddy Hackett as Tennessee Steinmetz: A lovable, eccentric artist and Jim's best friend. Hackett adds a touch of whimsy with his performance.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was initially going to be called "The Magic Volksy", but was later changed to "The Love Bug".
• Herbie's unique number 53 comes from the first number that was available for the film's racing scenes.

Awards

The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score.

Quotes

• "Herbie's just a little jealous. He doesn't like it when I drive another car." - Jim Douglas
• "He can be touchy. You know, like a person. You have to get to know him." - Tennessee Steinmetz

Music, Soundtrack

• "The Love Bug Main Title" – George Bruns
• "Herbie's Splashdown" – George Bruns
• "Thorndyke And The Bear" – George Bruns